A pick of the best homes in Pooh Country

The Savills Blog

A pick of the best homes in Pooh Country

This month marks 100 years since the very first Winnie-the-Pooh book was published. Following the exploits of Pooh and his companions, author A.A Milne based the 100 Acre Wood, Galleon’s Lap, Poohsticks Bridge and Pooh Corner on real locations; the surroundings of his home, Cotchford Farm, in Ashdown Forest.

Cotchford Farm was home to the Milne family for over three decades, with the adventures of their young son, Christopher Robin, inspiring the tales that went on to become beloved classics across the world. In 2016, Savills was fortunate to sell the house for its then owners, and its setting was just as special to them as it was for the Milne family who had lived there many years before.

The largest public space in the south-east of England, Ashdown Forest covers over 10 square miles and forms part of the High Weald National Landscape. A glorious rural setting, there are around 700 properties situated in the forest and those who live there are known as ‘Commoners’, enjoying a specific Right of Common over Ashdown Forest.

Living in or close to the forest provides access to one of the region’s most spectacular landscapes, while also having the amenities and transport links via the nearby towns of Tunbridge Wells and Uckfield close by. Here’s our pick of the best homes for sale in the area.

The Garden House, Nutley, East Sussex

Situated in Ashdown Forest, within the private estate of Chelwood Vachery, The Garden House is a substantial single-storey modern home set within glorious park-like grounds. Chelwood Vachery was once a single country residence, rebuilt at the turn of the twentieth century, with its gardens significantly landscaped during the 1920s.

Old Buckhurst West, Withyham, Hartfield, East Sussex

Old Buckhurst West forms part of this imposing, listed, country house conversion hidden away from view in the heart of Withyham surrounded by the beautiful East Sussex countryside.

Approaching 2500 sq ft, the accommodation is set across three floors. Outside the garden is laid to lawn with more informal gardens beyond the parking area, ideal for child's play with a woodland "den" to the rear boundary. There is also easy access to nearby public footpaths, offering access to beautiful countryside walks. Located in the village of Withyham, the property is within straightforward reach of Ashdown Forest.

Hundred End, Fairwarp, Uckfield, East Sussex

Hundred End is a handsome detached period residence, featuring part tile-hung brick and sandstone elevations beneath a traditional tiled roof. Nestled on the edge of a charming rural village, the property enjoys a beautiful countryside setting without feeling isolated. Fairwarp is situated on the southern side of Ashdown Forest.

Newtons Hill, Hartfield, East Sussex

A well-presented family house with gardens, paddock and woodland, set just outside the village of Hartfield, in the heart of Ashdown Forest. It offers a fine combination of character accommodation and up-to-date design, and has a large and central kitchen/breakfast room with direct access to the rear terrace and garden.

Colemans Hatch, Hartfield, East Sussex

A stunning, spacious family house, combining both new and old to great and characterful effect. With mature gardens, a pool and pond, the property is set along a quiet lane and offers direct access onto Ashdown Forest.

Parrock Place, Colemans Hatch, Hartfield, East Sussex

An outstanding country house, beautifully set within its own grounds, in the Ashdown Forest area. Built in the 1930s, this property has recently undergone a major expansion and updating project, which has retained the look and feel of the original house.

Withyham, Hartfield, East Sussex

Offering five bedrooms over three floors, this delightful and charming house is formed from the right-side wing of a stunning Georgian rectory. Situated in a picturesque village, the property is close to Ashdown Forest.

Further information

Contact Robert Jacobs and Rohan Vines

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